In celebration of my nineteenth birthday this week, here are the most important lessons I've learned in the past nineteen years.

1. It is completely OK to make mistakes

Making mistakes is part of life and sometimes I overanalyze every single thing I do wrong. I've realized though that it is alright to make mistakes because I can only learn from them which will help me in the long run.

2. Get rid of the people in your life who constantly bring you down

People who claim to be your friends but don't say things a friend would say to you, aren't worth keeping around.

3. Do your homework

In high school, it was so easy to pass without doing the homework or studying. College is so much more different than that though and you'll quickly realize that it's imperative to get your work done on time.

4. But also, it's OK to take a break every once in a while

Seriously, binge watch that show you've been wanting to watch, you'll feel better.

5. Everyone you meet is not going to like you

This is one of the most important realities of life to understand, and it's sometimes a difficult concept to wrap your head around. Once you realize this though, you'll find it much easier to carry on with your daily interactions with people.

6. Stop caring about what everyone else thinks of you

As Childish Gambino says, "Doing me better than you doing you," because in the end you have to make sure you're happy with yourself first.

7. Naps are one of the greatest things in life

Never take for granted the healing power of a good nap. Seriously, one of the easiest ways to de-stress.

8. Form your own opinions

Research things before you weigh in on something. Don't always believe the first thing you hear, because it may not be true.

9. Think before you speak

Words can really hurt people, I’ve learned that the hard way. Make sure you consider how someone will react to something you say, and make sure that you’re OK with that reaction before you say it.

10. Be honest

People will appreciate this quality in you the most.

11. Kindness goes a long way

Simple acts of kindness can make a person's day.

12. You don't have to forget to forgive

Forgiveness is important to maintaining your own mental health, but you don’t need to forget things to come to terms with the outcome of them.

13. Coffee is lifesaving

I can’t tell you how many days in my life that caffeine has come in clutch.

14. Going for long drives with your friends is something to be cherished

There is no feeling like a warm summer night driving to random places with the music blasting accompanied by your best friends.

15. Golden Oreos are the best type of Oreo

Unpopular opinion, but it's just the truth.

16. Surround yourself with positivity

What is the point of negativity? Seriously, being positive can improve your mental well being.

17. Reading is fundamental

I cannot stress this enough.

18. Your family will always have your back

No matter what, no matter how many times you mess up, no matter how many times you call them in distress, they are always the ones who will be there at the end of the day. They are your biggest supporters.

19. It's OK to be alone

Spending time with yourself is therapeutic.